October 20, 1873

The IAFC is Born

The National Association of Fire Engineers, now the IAFC, convenes for the first time in Baltimore, Md. While it is well known the meeting addressed the matter of standardized hose couplings, the primary agenda topic of this meeting—and for many meetings going forward—is fire prevention.

1878

Innovations in Technology

The members of the NAFE receive a demonstration of a newly invented smoke mask. The Goodrich "electric" telegraph hose, which allowed the nozzle and pump operators to communicate, is featured in the exhibit hall the following year. In the years that follow, many would-be inventors seek the council of the association's members. As a result of emerging technology, the association begins work on the development of specifications and performance requirements.

1881

State Chiefs Associations

The association adopted a resolution to call on its members to create state chief's associations, as a result of increased railroad ticket prices that made participating in a national meeting difficult. The recommendation was for these organizations to have similar discussion of relevant topics at the state level, which could then be brought forward to the broader membership via delegates to the national conference.

1882

A Pioneer in Building Codes

The impact of changing construction techniques and building materials on fire prevention and suppression has been a key issue of the association since its inception. The NAFE took action toward developing a national building code when it developed a set of 'laws' relating to the construction and reconstruction of buildings.

Nine years later, the association, in collaboration with National Builders Association, the National Building Inspectors Association, the Board of Fire Underwriters and the American Institute of Architects create and issue the first building code for universal application.

1886

The First National Training Manual

The association begins work on a Manual of Drill, noting the lack of any standardized operational training manual for hook and ladder, hose, and chemical and engine companies. The Fireman's Handy Book was developed with the financial support of a private corporation and distributed to the members and others in the fire service community free of charge.

1891

A Vision for the Future

In its first nod to what would become fire-based EMS, several papers and a demonstration at the annual meeting champion the benefits of training firefighters in first aid. The most common issues discussed the treatment of burns and fractures, and resuscitation of drowned and suffocated victims. The papers advocate that early medical intervention on the incident scene can increase survivability.

In this year, the association also first called for the creation of a national fire academy in the United States. Chief Henry Goetz looked forward to the day when, "some great man of the government" would erect, "a great building to educate our young men in the science of preventing and fighting fire."

1894

Going International

At the first meeting to be held in Canada, the association's name is changed from the National Association of Fire Engineers to the International Association of Fire Engineers (IAFE) by unanimous vote. Chief Z. Benoit of Quebec was sworn in as the first association president from outside the U.S.